Introduction: Corian vs. Quartz – A Cost Showdown
When you’re planning a kitchen or bathroom upgrade, countertops are a big decision—and so is your budget. That’s why the question, “Which is cheaper, Corian or quartz?” pops up so often. Both materials promise durability and style, but the price tag can make or break your choice. Corian, a solid surface pioneer, and quartz, the engineered stone darling, each bring something unique to the table—but which one leaves more money in your wallet?
At The Countertop Store, located at 14844 Ingram Rd, North Little Rock, AR 72117, we’ve seen homeowners wrestle with this choice daily. In this 2025 deep dive, we’ll compare Corian and quartz head-to-head on cost—upfront, long-term, and everything in between. Whether you’re remodeling for yourself or resale, let’s break it down so you can decide which is cheaper—and smarter—for you!
When planning a kitchen or bathroom upgrade, countertops are a major decision—and so is your budget. That’s why homeowners often ask, “Which is cheaper, Corian or quartz?” Both materials offer durability and style, but the price tag can make or break your choice.
At The Countertop Store in North Little Rock, AR, we help homeowners navigate this decision daily. In this guide, we’ll compare Corian and quartz head-to-head on cost—upfront, long-term, and everything in between. Whether you’re remodeling for yourself or resale, let’s break it down so you can decide which option is truly cheaper for you!
Corian vs. Quartz: What’s the Difference? 🤔
What Is Corian?
Corian is a solid surface material invented by DuPont in 1967. It’s made from 33% acrylic resin and 66% natural minerals, creating a non-porous, seamless, and moldable countertop. It’s softer than stone but repairable, making it a practical choice.
What Is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, also called engineered stone, contain 90-94% crushed quartz mixed with resins and pigments. Brands like Caesarstone and Silestone dominate this space. Quartz is harder, more durable, and mimics natural stone like granite or marble.
Why Cost Matters 💵
Choosing the “cheaper” option isn’t just about the upfront price—it also includes installation, maintenance, and long-term durability. Let’s break it all down!
Upfront Costs: Which One Costs Less? 💲
For a 40-square-foot kitchen countertop, here’s what you can expect to pay:
Corian Costs
- Material: $30-$80 per sq. ft.
- Installed: $50-$150 per sq. ft.
- Total for 40 sq. ft.: $2,000-$6,000 (average: $3,500)
🛠️ Price Factors:
- Basic colors (white, beige): $30-$50/sq. ft.
- Trendy patterns: $60-$80+/sq. ft.
- Labor: $50-$150/hour (5-6 hours = $250-$900)
Quartz Costs
- Material: $40-$100 per sq. ft.
- Installed: $50-$200 per sq. ft.
- Total for 40 sq. ft.: $2,000-$8,000 (average: $4,500)
🛠️ Price Factors:
- Builder-grade (simple whites, grays): $40-$70/sq. ft.
- Premium (veined, exotic): $80-$100+/sq. ft.
- Labor: $10-$40/sq. ft. (40 sq. ft. = $400-$1,600)
✅ Verdict: Corian is often cheaper upfront, costing $5-$20 less per square foot on average.
Installation Costs: Labor and Complexity 🏗️
Corian Installation
- Labor Cost: $250-$900 (5-6 hours at $50-$150/hour)
- Why Cheaper?
- Lighter (2.2-4.4 lbs/sq. ft.) = easier handling
- Seamless joints = faster install
- Can be DIY-friendly for experienced homeowners
Quartz Installation
- Labor Cost: $400-$1,600 (40 sq. ft. at $10-$40/sq. ft.)
- Why Pricier?
- Heavier (4-5 lbs/sq. ft.) = requires more manpower
- Harder material = specialized cutting tools
- Seams require precise blending
✅ Verdict: Corian is cheaper to install, saving $150-$700 in labor costs.
Long-Term Costs: Maintenance & Durability 🛠️
Corian Maintenance
- Upkeep Cost: $10-$50 per year
- Pros:
✅ No sealing required
✅ Scratches can be sanded/buffed out - Cons:
❌ Prone to heat damage (repairs = $100-$300)
❌ Softer material = more wear over time - Lifespan: 20-30 years
Quartz Maintenance
- Upkeep Cost: $0-$20 per year
- Pros:
✅ No sealing required
✅ Scratch-resistant
✅ Heat-resistant (use trivets to prevent discoloration) - Cons:
❌ Repairs for heat damage can cost $200-$500 - Lifespan: 30-50 years
✅ Verdict: Quartz lasts longer and requires less maintenance, making it the better long-term value.
Resale Value: Does Cheaper Mean Less Valuable? 🏡
Corian & Home Value
- Adds: $1,000-$3,000 to a $200,000 home
- ROI: 50-70% of cost recouped
- Perception: Mid-tier material—not as premium as stone
Quartz & Home Value
- Adds: $2,000-$5,000 to a $200,000 home
- ROI: 60-80% of cost recouped
- Perception: Luxury material—appeals to buyers
✅ Verdict: Quartz is the better investment for resale.
Which One Is Cheaper for Your Situation? 🏠
| Project | Corian Cost | Quartz Cost | Cheaper Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Vanity (10 sq. ft.) | $500-$1,500 | $500-$2,000 | Corian (DIY-friendly) |
| Mid-Size Kitchen (40 sq. ft.) | $2,000-$6,000 | $2,000-$8,000 | Corian (lower upfront) |
| Luxury Remodel (60 sq. ft.) | $3,000-$9,000 | $3,000-$12,000 | Quartz (higher resale) |
✅ Verdict: Corian is cheaper upfront, but quartz wins for long-term value and resale.
How to Save Money on Corian or Quartz 🏷️
💡 Corian Savings Tips
✔️ Choose basic colors ($30-$50/sq. ft.)
✔️ DIY installation (saves $250-$900)
✔️ Buy sheets and glue them yourself
💡 Quartz Savings Tips
✔️ Look for remnants ($10-$30/sq. ft.)
✔️ Choose builder-grade colors ($40-$70/sq. ft.)
✔️ Demo your old counters to cut labor costs
🛍️ Best Time to Buy? Winter sales & Black Friday—10-20% off! Call 501-658-6511 for current deals.
FAQs: Your Countertop Cost Questions Answered ❓
👉 Which is cheaper, Corian or quartz?
Corian is $50-$150/sq. ft. installed, while quartz is $50-$200/sq. ft.—so Corian is cheaper upfront.
👉 Does Corian last as long as quartz?
No—Corian lasts 20-30 years, while quartz lasts 30-50 years.
👉 Which one is better for resale?
Quartz—adds $2,000-$5,000 in home value, while Corian adds $1,000-$3,000.
Final Verdict: Corian or Quartz? 💡
If you want the cheapest upfront cost, Corian is the winner. If you want the cheapest long-term investment, quartz pays off with better durability and resale value.
💬 Still undecided? Visit us at 14844 Ingram Rd, North Little Rock, AR 72117, call 501-658-6511, or check thecountertopstore.co for expert guidance! 😊
